Segment:
Executive Sedan (Luxury Mid-size)
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Lexus LS 400
Vehicle Philosophy:
Known for its blend of performance, comfort, build quality, and advanced engineering for its era.
Completeness:
Provides exhaustive information for DIY repairs and maintenance, surpassing generic guides.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head/valve, cylinder/piston, crankshaft/primary shaft, crankcase
Fuel System:
Fuel system diagnostics, component testing, and repair
Transmission:
Clutch, gearshift linkage, sub-transmission, transmission overhaul, and repair
Suspension:
Front wheel and suspension, rear wheel and suspension repair and adjustment
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system diagnostics, repair, and component replacement
Electrical System:
Battery/charging system, ignition system, electric starter, switches, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Bodywork repair, adjustments (though often less detailed than mechanical/electrical)
Maintenance:
Regular service, inspection and adjustment, lubrication
Repair:
Component replacement, overhaul, and rebuilding of major systems
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Wiring:
Detailed electrical diagrams for re-wiring and troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to engine and transmission rebuilds
Advanced Diagnostics:
Includes diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting flowcharts for complex systems.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners and components.
Diagrams:
Step-by-step diagrams for assembly, disassembly, and repair procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive 'Troubleshooting' section covering common faults and their solutions.
Fluid Capacities:
Precise fluid capacities for all vehicle systems.
Compatibility:
PC/MAC Compatible
Viewing Features:
Zoom In/Out capability for detailed viewing
Delivery:
Instant Download via email link
Print Option:
Print specific pages or the entire manual
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Code:
M30B35 (3.5L inline-6)
Configuration:
3.5 Liter SOHC Inline 6-cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 208 hp @ 5700 rpm (for 3.5L variant)
Torque:
Approx. 214 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for 3.5L variant)
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Coolant Type:
BMW approved ethylene glycol coolant (e.g., BMW Blue or equivalent)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change (verify with manual)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40, synthetic or semi-synthetic (verify with manual for specific temperature ranges)
Type:
Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP-22 4-speed automatic transmission
Rear Wheel Drive:
Standard RWD layout
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (verify with manual)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or SAE 75W-90 GL-4 (verify with manual)
Length:
Approx. 4730 mm (186.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1550-1600 kg (3417-3527 lbs) depending on transmission and options
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)
Recommended Tire Size:
205/65R15, 225/55R15 (check specific trim and options)
Crash Test Data:
Historically strong safety performance for its era, though specific ratings from modern organizations may not be directly applicable.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard or optional
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag often standard in later years of this generation, passenger airbags less common initially.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12-18 months for synthetic oil (refer to manual for precise intervals).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type (refer to manual).
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine but requires inspection.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW approved power steering fluid or CHF 11S (check manual for exact specification)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and leak; water pump and thermostat failures.
Electrical System:
Vanous electrical gremlins, particularly related to aging wiring harnesses, sensor failures (e.g., MAF, O2), and Motronic control unit issues.
Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rods leading to steering looseness and vibration.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failures, clogged injectors, and aging fuel lines.
Legacy:
BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' firmly established with models like the E34.
Generation:
E34 generation of the BMW 5 Series, succeeding the E28 and preceding the E39.
Production Years:
1987-1996 (E34 generation), with 525i variants prominent in the early to mid period.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primary)
